introduction i. reasons for believing god ......god what answer he should give to the children of...

Discovering Christianity

Lesson One

INTRODUCTION The Bible makes no attempt to prove the existence of God. Genesis 1:1 states:

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” It assumes it as fact

and asserts that “The fool has said in his heart, There is no God’” (Psalm 14:1).

The Bible is written on the premise that the evidence for God is so strong that no

informed person would deny His existence.

Some stumble at the idea of an eternal God. This is due to the fact that we had

a beginning and cannot conceive of anyone who did not have a beginning.

Nonetheless, God has always been. There are many reasons why the Christian

accepts the existence of God. Consider some of these.

I. REASONS FOR BELIEVING GOD EXISTS

Apologetics — The Bible reveals it. As has already been mentioned, the Bible

states as a matter of fact that God exists. We must examine the Bible for its

trustworthiness in all areas. When a person does this, he will find that the Bible

stands true in areas that no early man could have possibly known, thus revealing

the existence of God.

Cosmological Argument — Reason teaches it. This is the law of cause and

effect. For every effect there must be a cause. The universe is the effect. What is

the cause? Did something come out of nothing? Or was there a mastermind

behind it all? Hebrews 3:4 says, “For every house is built by someone, but the

builder of all things is God.”

Teleological Argument — Intelligence indicates it. This is the argument that the

design implies a designer. Everything that the sciences have proven (and they

haven’t proven everything) shows design, not chaos.

Ontological Argument — Intuition requires it. This is the argument that man

instinctively or intuitively recognizes that there is a higher being than himself.

We think and function in certain ways that let us know in our heart there mut be a

higher power than ourselves. Paul says in Romans 1:20, “For since the creation

of the world His invisible attributes, His eternal power and divine nature, have

been clearly seen, being understood through what has been made, so that they are

without excuse.”

Astronomy, Biology, Geology, etc. — Nature proves it. This one ties in with all

the above arguments. All areas of provable science are in total agreement with

the Bible. Psalms 19:1 says, “The heavens are telling of the glory of God; and

their expanse is declaring the work of His hands.”

GOD THE FATHER

Archeology — History proclaims it. All known archeological discoveries

confirm the biblical record. [note: Book of Mormon has no maps, arch evidence]

Now that we know that God exists, we can begin to study about God. What is

God like? What are His characteristics? We can know these things. In fact, God

wants us to know!

II. GOD’S NAMES REVEAL A LOT ABOUT HIM.

His personal name is Jehovah. It means the self-existent one. He is not

limited by time or space, for He is without beginning or end. When Moses asked

God what answer he should give to the children of Israel when they asked for his

authority, God replied in Exodus 3:14, “I AM WHO I AM” (Yahweh=Jehovah).

“He who is the substance of all things has sent you.” God is the first cause. If

anything else caused the universe to be, then God is automatically eliminated.

All rational thinking must begin with God.

The name “ELOHIM” is applied to God in Genesis 1:1 and elsewhere in the

Old Testament. This means “strong one” and refers to His all-powerful nature

especially in connection with creation.

“Adon” —- means Lord and Master and is often applied to God in the Bible

showing His authority.

III. GOD’S NATURE SHOWS US MUCH ABOUT GOD.

He is OMNIPOTENT (all powerful). Omnipotent means “unlimited in power,

ability, or authority.” This great truth is revealed in many places in the Bible. In

Jeremiah 32:17 and 32:27 we find these words: “Ah Lord Jehovah! Behold, You

have made the heavens and the earth by Your great power and by Your

outstretched arm! Nothing is too difficult for You.” God’s response to Jeremiah

is: “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is there anything too difficult for

Me?” Jesus testified of God’s power in Matthew 19:26 by saying, “With God all

things are possible.”

Ps. 33:6; 107:25; Isa 59:1; Ja. 4:12

He is OMNISCIENT — all-knowing. “Omniscient” means “having universal

knowledge; infinitely wise.” God knows the past, present and the future; our

deeds and thoughts; what we will do and what He will do. First Samuel 16:7

says, “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at this appearance or at the

height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees,

for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Ps. 147:4; Rom 8:28; 1 Jn. 3:19

He is OMNIPRESENT — everywhere. “Omnipresent” means, “present

everywhere at once.”

2 Chron. 16:9; Ps. 139:7

God is SPIRIT. John 4:24 reveals that “God is Spirit.” A spirit is a person, a

being that thinks, feels, has emotions.

God is ETERNAL. His personal name, “Jehovah,” implies this. He is life, and

lives in the eternal present. He has no beginning and no ending. He does not

count time by earthly standards, He is infinite. 2 Peter 3:8 — “with the Lord one

day is like a thousand years, and a thousand years like one day.”

God is LOVE. 1 Jn. 4:8 says it plainly. He is the very definition of love. If we

want to know what true love is, we need to stop listening to the definitions the

world feeds us and start looking at the person of God, how He thinks and how

He acts, because He is love.

God is LIGHT. The apostle John writes in 1 John 1:5 that “God is light, and in

Him there is no darkness at all.” All that is truth and all that is right is found in

the person and character of God. Anything that deviates from God is not true and

not right.

God is a CONSUMING FIRE (Heb. 12:29). No one can fool God or “pull-the-

wool” over His eyes or purposely “get by” with doing wrong and not pay the

price. Only those who have accepted God’s grace will escape His wrath. All

others will experience it.

Heb. 10:27

God is HOLY — separated. The word “holy” means “separation” or

“separated one.” In the case of God, He is totally separated from all sin, all evil,

all unrighteousness and He calls us to be the same. This is one of the greatest

distinctions between Jehovah and the gods created by man. All other gods are

flawed. But not Jehovah God. He is perfect.

1 Peter 1:15

God is FAITHFUL. God will keep His Word for it is impossible for Him to lie

(Heb. 6:18). Because God does not change (Mal. 3:6), man can place his total

trust in every promise He makes. The omnipotence of God assures His

faithfulness. Men cannot always keep their promises, no matter how well

intentioned, because of human weaknesses. But God can perform and will keep

all He promises.

1 Jn. 1:9; Deut. 7:9

CONCLUSION

Jer. 9:23-24

Because God exists, has created all that is and possesses all the divine

attributes, man is obligated to Him. The created cannot escape obligation and

responsibility to the Creator.

INTRODUCTION

Men have spent a lot of time and energy to prove something the Bible makes

no attempt to prove. What is it?

Why is it difficult for men to conceive of an eternal being?

What does the Bible say of the one who insists there is no God (Ps. 14:1)?

I. REASONS FOR BELIEVING GOD EXISTS

Apologetics — The Bible _________________ it.

Cosmological argument — _____________ teaches it. Heb. 3:4

Teleological argument — ________________ indicates it.

Ontological argument — _________________ requires it. Rom. 1:20

Science — ___________________ proves (displays) it. Ps. 19:1

Archeology — _____________ proclaims it.

II. GOD’S NAMES REVEAL A LOT ABOUT HIM.

His personal name, ______________, means _________________________.

Ex. 3:14

“Elohim” means ______________________________. Gen. 1:1

“Adon” means _______________________________.

III. GOD’S NATURE SHOWS US MUCH ABOUT GOD.

He is _____________________, which means _____________________.

Jer. 32:17; 32:27; Matt. 19:26; Ps. 33:6; 107:25; Isa. 59:1; Ja. 4:12

He is _____________________, which means _____________________.

1 Sam. 16:7; Ps. 14:4; Rom. 8:28; 1 Jn. 3:19

He is _____________________, which means _____________________.

2 Chron. 16:9; Ps. 139:7


Lesson One

GOD THE FATHER

God is ____________________. Jn. 4:24 A spirit is a _______________.

God is ____________________. 2 Pet. 3:8

God is ____________________. 1 Jn. 4:8

God is _______________. 1 Jn. 1:5

God is a _______________________________. Heb. 12:29; 10:27

God is ________________, which means ___________________. 1 Pet. 1:15

God is ________________. 1 Jn. 1:9; Heb. 6:18; Deut. 7:9; Mal. 3:6

CONCLUSION

Jer. 9:23-24

Because God exists, has created all that is and possesses all the divine

attributes, man is ________________ to Him. The created cannot escape

_______________________ and _______________________ to the Creator.


Lesson Two

INTRODUCTION

The most important consideration of mankind, affecting not only life on earth

but in eternity, relates to the identity of Jesus Christ. Everything hinges upon

one’s regard for this historical figure.

This issue is discussed and debated by people of all walks of life. None can

deny that He lived. But many deny His claims. Some say:

“He was just a man.”

“He was a Jewish prophet.”

“He was a do-gooder.”

“He was a great teacher.”

“He was the founder of Christianity.”

“He was an insurrectionist who got what He deserved.”

These are but a few of the opinions of people concerning Christ. As Josh

McDowell has so aptly pointed out, there are really only three possibilities we

can consider as to who Jesus really is:

1. He is a liar. If, when Jesus made His claims He knew that He wasn’t God,

then He was lying. More than a liar, He would also be a hypocrite, for He

demanded total honesty in His followers. He would be unspeakably evil

because he told men He was the only way to eternal life. He was also a fool

because His claims to deity resulted in His crucifixion. But the testimony of

His closest friends and His worst enemies contradict what we would expect

about Him if He were a liar and deceiver.

2. He is a lunatic. As Josh McDowell writes in Evidence That Demands A

Verdict,

“If it is inconceivable for Jesus to be a liar, then could not He actually have

thought Himself to be God, but been mistaken? After all, it is possible to be

both sincere and wrong. But we must remember that for someone to think

that He is God, especially in a culture that is fiercely monotheistic, and

then to tell others that their eternal destiny depends on believing in Him is

no slight flight of fantasy but the thoughts of a lunatic in the fullest sense.

Was Jesus such a person?”

All evidence points to the contrary. His words and thoughts are logical and

reasonable. He baffled the teachers of the Law at age twelve. He put to

silence the scribes and Pharisees when they tested Him. He amazed the

common person because He taught as one who had authority. In every

situation, He kept a cool head when all around Him people were losing theirs.

3. He is Lord. The third and only real choice is that Jesus is telling the truth and

is Lord. Three major factors point to this truth:

• He fulfilled all Old Testament prophecy concerning the Messiah.

• He performed miracles that only God could perform.

• He raised from the dead.

JESUS THE CHRIST

I. THE TESTIMONY ABOUT JESUS

A. By His enemies

1. Pharisees — testified that Jesus claimed to be God, the Son of God, equal

with God. John 5:18; 10:30-33; 19:7

2. Demons — testified that Jesus is God. Matt. 8:29; Lk. 4:33-34

3. The Centurion (Matt. 27:54) testified Jesus is the Son of God

B. By His friends

1. Mark (1:1) — testified that Jesus is the Son of God

2. John (1:1) — testified that Jesus is the eternal God

3. John the Baptist — testified that Jesus is the Lamb of God and the Son of

God. Jn. 1:29, 34

4. Andrew — testified that Jesus is Messiah—Christ. Jn. 1:41

5. Nathaniel — testified that Jesus is the Son of God, the King of Israel.

Jn. 1:49

6. Thomas — testified that Jesus is Lord and God. Jn. 20:28

7. Peter — testified that Jesus is Lord, Christ, Son of the living God.

Lk. 5:8; Matt. 16:16

C. By God the Father — testified that Jesus is His Son. Matt. 3:17; 17:5

D. By Jesus Himself

1. claims the authority to forgive sin Matt. 9:6; Jn. 8:24

2. claims to have all authority and to know the Father Matt. 11:27; 28:18

3. claims to reside in heaven with power Matt. 26:64

4. claims to be the ultimate judge Jn. 5:22

5. claims to be God’s ambassador Jn. 8:29

6. claims to be sinless Jn. 8:46

7. claims to be eternal Jn. 8:58

8. claims to be one with the Father Jn. 10:30

9. claims to have power over death Jn. 11:25

II. THE CHARACTER OF JESUS

A. Testimony of His enemies

1. Judas — testified Jesus is innocent. Matt. 27:4

2. Pilate — testified there is no sin or evil in Him.

Matt. 27:23; Lk. 23:4; Jn 18:38

3. Pilate’s wife — testified He is righteous. Matt. 27:19

4. Herod — testified Jesus had no guilt. Lk 23:14-15

5. Centurion — testified He is innocent. Lk. 23:47

B. Testimony of His friends

1. Paul — testified Jesus knew no sin. 2 Cor. 5:21

2. Peter — testified Jesus committed no sin. 1 Pet. 2:22-23

3. Writer of Hebrews — testifies Jesus was tempted but did not sin.

Heb. 4:15

4. John — testified there was no sin in Jesus. 1 Jn. 3:5

C. Testimony of Jesus Himself

1. He does what the Father does. Jn. 5:19

2. He does what pleases God. Jn. 8:29

3. He speaks the truth; no sin. Jn. 8:46

4. Satan has no power over Him. Jn. 14:30

III. PROPHECIES ABOUT JESUS FULFILLED over 300

A. Relating to His birth

1. Born of a virgin Is. 7:14; Matt. 1:18, 21

2. Born in Bethlehem Micah 5:2; Matt. 2:1

B. Relating to His life and ministry

1. Forerunner, cleansing of the temple Ps. 69:9; Jn. 2:13

2. Triumphal entry Zech. 9:9; Matt. 21:5

3. Patience and silence in suffering Is. 53:7; Matt. 27:1-14

C. Relating to His death

1. Rich man’s grave Is. 53:9; Matt. 27:57-60

2. Numbered with the criminals Is. 53:1; Jn. 19:18

3. Pierced hands and feet Ps. 22:1; Jn. 19:18

4. Cast lots for garments Ps. 22:18; Matt. 27:35

IV. THE MIRACLES OF JESUS

A. Widely known Acts 26:26

B. Variety

1. Power over nature Matt. 8:26 calmed the sea

2. Power over demons Matt. 8:28-34 healed demon-possessed man

3. Power over death Matt. 9:24-25 little girl Jn. 11 Lazarus

4. Power over physical infirmity Matt. 927-3 restored sight to the blind

5. Power of intimate knowledge Jn. 1:48; 4:17-18 Nathaniel; woman at

well

6. Power to feed multitudes Jn. 6:11

7. In all, 35 specific miracles are mentioned pointing to the deity of Jesus.

CONCLUSION

Peter’s testimony: “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God” (Matt.

16:16)

INTRODUCTION

The most important consideration of mankind, affecting not only life on earth

but in eternity, relates to the ____________________ of Jesus Christ.

None can deny that Jesus ____________, but many deny His ____________.

There are really only three possible conclusions one may reach concerning

the identity of Jesus. He was either a _____________, a ______________, or He

is _____________.

Three major factors support the claim that Jesus is divine:

1.

2.

3.

I. THE TESTIMONY ABOUT JESUS

A. By His enemies

1. Pharisees (Jn. 5:18; 10:30-33; 19:7) _______________________________

2. Demons (Matt. 8:29; Lk. 4:33-34) ________________________________

3. The centurion (Matt. 27:54) _____________________________________

B. By His friends

1. Mark (1:1) ___________________________________________________

2. John the Apostle (1:1) _________________________________________

3. John the Immerser (Jn. 1:29, 34) _________________________________

4. Andrew (Jn. 1:41) _____________________________________________

5. Nathaniel (Jn. 1:49) ___________________________________________

6. Thomas (Jn. 20:28) ____________________________________________

7. Peter (Lk. 5:8; Matt. 16:16) _____________________________________

C. By God the Father (Matt. 3:17; 17:5) _______________________________

JESUS THE CHRIST

D. By Jesus Himself

1. claims to have authority to _____________________ (Matt. 9:6; Jn. 8:24)

2. claims to have all _________ and to know _________ (Matt. 11:27; 28:18)

3. claims to reside in __________________ (Matt. 26:64)

4. claims to be the ultimate ___________________ (Jn. 5:22)

5. claims to be God’s ambassador (Jn. 8:29)

6. claims to be ____________________ (Jn. 8:46)

7. claims to be ____________________ (Jn. 8:58)

8. claims to be __________ with the Father (Jn. 10:30)

9. claims to have power over ________________ (Jn. 11:25)

II. THE CHARACTER OF JESUS

A. Testimony of His enemies

1. Judas (Matt. 27:4) testified Jesus is _______________________.

2. Pilate (Matt. 27:23; Lk. 23:4; Jn. 18:38) said, “_____________________.”

3. Pilate’s wife (Matt. 27:19) said, “________________________________.”

4. Herod (Lk. 23:14-15) testified Jesus had no __________________.

5. Centurion (Lk. 23:47) testified to Jesus’ innocence.

B. Testimony of His friends

1. Paul (2 Cor. 5:21) testified Jesus knew no __________.

2. Peter (1 Pet. 2:22-23) testified Jesus committed no ________.

3. Writer of Hebrews (4:15) testified Jesus was tempted but did not sin.

4. John (1 Jn. 3:5) testified there was no __________ in Jesus.

C. Testimony of Jesus Himself

1. He does what the Father does. Jn. 5:19

2. He does what pleases God. Jn. 8:29

3. He speaks the truth; no sin Jn. 8:46

4. Satan has no power over Him. Jn. 14:30

III. PROPHECIES ABOUT JESUS FULFILLED (over 300!)

A. Relating to His birth

1. Born of a ______________ (Is. 7:14; Matt. 1:18, 21)

2. Born in ________________ (Micah 5:2; Matt. 2:1)

B. Relating to His life and ministry

1. Forerunner, cleansing of the temple (Ps. 69:9; Jn. 2:13)

2. Triumphal entry (Zech. 9:9; Matt. 21:5)

3. Patience and silence in suffering (Is. 53:7; Matt. 27:1-14)

C. Relating to His death

1. Rich man’s grave (Is. 53:9; Matt. 27:57-60)

2. Numbered with the criminals (Is. 53:1; Jn. 19:18)

3. Pierced hands and feet (Ps. 22:1; Jn. 19:18)

4. Cast lots for garments (Ps. 22:18; Matt. 27:35)

IV. THE MIRACLES OF JESUS

A. Widely known (Acts 26:26)

B. Variety

1. Power over ___________ (Matt. 8:26)

2. Power over ___________ (Matt. 8:28-34)

3. Power over ___________ (Matt. 9:24-25; Jn. 11:25, 43-44)

4. Power over physical infirmity (Matt. 9:27-31)

5. Power of intimate knowledge (Jn. 1:48; 4:17-18)

6. Power to feed multitudes (Jn. 6:11)

7. In all, _____ specific miracles are mentioned pointing to the deity of Jesus.

CONCLUSION

Write below your response to someone who asks about the identity of Jesus,

giving three good reasons for your conclusion.


Lesson Three

INTRODUCTION

All but four major world religions are based on mere philosophical

propositions — they are philosophies (a study of the processes governing thought

and conduct and of the principles that regulate the universe).

Of the four that are based on personalities rather than a philosophical system.

Only Christianity claims an empty tomb for its founder.

ABRAHAM

Recognized by the Jews as the founder of Judaism, Abraham died about

1900 B.C. No resurrection was ever claimed for him.

BUDDHA

In the earliest account of his death, the “Mahaparinibhana Sutta,” we read

that when Buddha died, it was “with that utter passing away in which

nothing whatever remains behind.” There is no claim of a resurrection for

Buddha.

MOHAMMED

Mohammed died June 8, 632 A.D. at the age of 61 at Medina, where his

tomb is visited annually by thousands of devout Mohammedans.

JESUS CHRIST

Jesus repeatedly claimed that He would rise from the dead, although such a

claim is not necessary to the founding of a world religion.

Matthew 12:38-40; 6:23; 17:9; 20:18-19; 2:32; 27:62-66

Mk. 9:9-10

Lk. 9:22

Jn. 2:18-22; 10:17—18

A man would have to be a lunatic to perpetrate the idea that he would rise

from the dead, when it was unnecessary to his cause. Unless, of course, he knew

he had the ability to do so!

I. EVIDENCE NUMBER ONE — JESUS WAS DEAD

A. SCOURGING Mark 15:15

The victim was stripped of his clothing, tied to a post and beaten — in this

case by Roman soldiers. The instrument used was called a flagrum, a whip with

several leather strands with pieces of bone and metal attached to the end of each.

B. EXECUTION Mark 1:22

After a sleepless night, in which He was given no food, endured the mockery

of two trials, and had his back lacerated with the cruel Roman cat-o-nine tails, He

was led out to execution by crucifixion.

C. COMPLETION John 19:31

As the soldiers came around to break the legs of the victims, in order to be

sure they died before the Sabbath, they found Jesus already dead. (often a person

who was crucified would live in agony on the cross for as long as three days.)

THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS

Robbed of their opportunity to inflict further pain on Jesus, they thrust a spear

into His side. The mixture of blood and water from that wound has led many

medical authorities to conclude that Jesus died of a ruptured heart.

D. RESULTS Mark 15:37

The centurion, an expert on death, watched Jesus die. Because of the manner

in which he died the centurion exclaimed, “Truly this man was the Son of God!”

Pilate consulted this man to verify that Jesus was indeed dead.

E. BURIAL Matthew 27:59; John 19:38

The burial process was begun Jesus’ family and friends certainly believed He

was dead. All evidence verified the fact that Jesus was dead. Wrapped tightly

with linen plus several pounds of spices, a man who had had no sleep or food for

two days, as well as a scourging, the crown of thorns, the emotional stress of the

trials and the mocking and the crucifixion itself, wouldn’t be able to breathe

even if there was some shred of life in him! Jesus was dead.

Some have tried to promote what is called a “swoon theory,” which

speculates that Jesus only appeared to be dead — that He was not raised from

death, but simply revived. But evidence to the contrary is overwhelming. The

issue is not whether Jesus was dead, but whether He remained dead.

II. EVIDENCE NUMBER TWO — THE SEALED TOMB

A. Security Matthew 27:62

A guard was chosen by the Romans at the request of the High Priest. A guard

of soldiers usually consisted of ten to thirty soldiers. The tomb was also marked

with the Roman seal. The punishment for an unauthorized person who somehow

gets past the guards and breaks the seal was death.

B. Obstacle Mark 15:46; 16:4

A stone described as “extremely large” was rolled into place, blocking the

entry to the tomb, thereby sealing it. From our text we know that it was at least

larger than three women could move. It would have been a monumental task for

anyone to sneak past all the guards, remove the seal and move the stone without

being detected. Really, an impossible job. Who would have done it? His

followers had fled in terror. They had given it all up when Jesus was taken.

III. EVIDENCE NUMBER THREE — RESURRECTION WITNESSES 1. Mary Magdalene, two angels John 20:11-18; Mark 16:9

2. Mary Magdalene, Mary, an angel Matthew 28:1-10

3. Two men on the road to Emmaus Luke 24:13-33

4. Simon Luke 24:34

5. The eleven disciples Mark 16:13-14; Luke 24:36-43; John 20:19-20

6. Thomas John 20:24-29

7. The eleven disciples John 21:1-11

8. The eleven disciples Matthew 28:16-20

9. Peter, the twelve, five hundred at one time, Paul 1 Corinthians 15:3-9

IV. EVIDENCE NUMBER FOUR—NO REFUTATION BY ENEMIES

A. Soldiers

Within three days, reports of the resurrection began to spread through

Jerusalem and the surrounding area. There is no record of any attempt to dispute

these reports, except the ridiculous story of the soldiers. If the soldiers claimed

that the body had been stolen while all of them slept, they would have been a

laughing stock. Any time a Roman soldier was caught sleeping on guard, he was

killed immediately. The fact that they were able to tell about it would disprove

their story.

B. Peter

Within fifty days, Peter was standing in the temple preaching the resurrection

of Jesus to thousands (Acts 2:32). No one stood up and tried to refute his claims.

All that the Jews would have needed to do at this point was to produce the body

of Jesus and Christianity would have been aborted.

C. Gospels

The four gospels were written within the next thirty years or so, but no one

wrote to refute them.

In contrast to this silence by the enemies of Jesus Josephus, a Jewish historian

writing to please the Romans, says this about Jesus:

“Now there was about this time Jesus, a wise man, if it be lawful to call

him a man; for he was a doer of wonderful works, a teacher of such men as

receive the truth with pleasure. He drew over to him many Jews and also

many of the Greeks. This man was the Christ. And when Pilate condemned

him to the cross, upon his impeachment by the principal men among us,

those who had loved him from the first did not forsake him, for he

appeared alive to them on the third day, the divine prophets having spoken

these and thousands of other wonderful things about him. And even now

the race of Christians, so named from Him, has not died out.”

V. EVIDENCE NUMBER FIVE — PERSISTENT TESTIMONY

In spite of threatened and real persecution — even martyrdom — the apostles

never recanted, but persisted in proclaiming the message of the resurrection.

Simon Greenleaf (1783-1853) was the famous Royal Professor of Law at

Harvard University who succeeded Justice Joseph Story as the Dane Professor of

Law in the same university upon Story’s death in 1846. Greenleaf, while

Professor of Law at Harvard, wrote a volume entitled, “An Examination of the

Testimony of the Four Evangelists by the Rules of Evidence Administered in the

Courts of Justice” (Baker Book House, 1965), in which are recorded these

brilliant observations:

“The great truths which the apostles declared, were, that Christ had risen

from the dead, and that only through repentance from sin, and faith in him,

could men hope for salvation. This doctrine they asserted with one voice,

everywhere, not only under the greatest discouragements, but in the face of

the most appalling errors that can be presented to the mind of man. Their

master had recently perished as a malefactor, by the sentence of a public

tribunal. His religion sough to overthrow the religions of the whole world.

The laws of every country were against the teachings of His disciples. The

interests and passions of all the rulers and great men in the world were

against them. The fashion of the world was against them. Propagating this

new faith, even in the most inoffensive and peaceful manner, they could

expect nothing but contempt, opposition, reviling, bitter persecutions,

stripes, imprisonments, torments, and cruel deaths. Yet this faith they

zealously did propagate; and all these miseries they endured undismayed,

nay, rejoicing. As one after another was put to a miserable death, the

survivors only prosecuted their work with increased vigor and resolution.

The annals of military warfare afforded scarcely an example of the like

heroic constancy, patience, and unflinching courage. They had every

possible motive to review carefully the grounds of their faith, and

evidences of the great facts and truths which they asserted; and these

motives were pressed upon their attention with the most melancholy and

terrific frequency. It was therefore impossible that they could have

persisted in affirming the truths they have narrated, had not Jesus actually

risen from the dead, and had they not known this fact as certainly as they

knew any other fact . . . If then their testimony was not true, there was no

possible motive for its fabrication.”

CONCLUSION

As G.B. Hardy (Countdown, Moody Press, 1970) has said, “Here is the

complete record:

Abraham’s tomb is occupied.

Buddha’s tomb is occupied.

Mohammed’s tomb is occupied.

Jesus’ tomb is unoccupied!


Lesson Three

INTRODUCTION

Among the four major world religions that are based upon a person rather than

a philosophy, only Christianity claims a resurrected founder.

JUDAISM — ______________ died about 1900 B.C.

BUDDHISM — __________ died with “nothing whatever remaining behind.”

ISLAM — _____________________ died June 8, 632 A.D. at age 61 in

Medina, where his tomb may be visited yet today.

CHRISTIANITY — Jesus’ resurrection was not only prophesied and

promised, but proven by many irrefutable facts or convincing, infallible proofs

(Acts 1:3).

I. EVIDENCE NUMBER ONE — JESUS WAS ________________.

A. _______________ Mark 15:15

B. _______________ Mark 1:22

C. _______________ John 19:31

D. _______________ Mark 1:37

E. _______________ Matthew 27:59; John 19:38

II. EVIDENCE NUMBER TWO — ____________________________.

A. _______________ Matthew 27:62

B. _______________ Mark 15:46; 16:4

III. EVIDENCE NUMBER THREE — RESURRECTION ______________.

1. ________________________________ John 20:11-18; Mark 16:9

2. ________________________________ Mathew 28:1-10

3. ________________________________ Luke 24:13-33

4. ________________________________ Luke 24:34

THE RESURRECTION OF JESUS

5. ____________________________ Mk. 16:1314; Lk. 24:36-43; Jn. 20:19-20

6. ____________________________ John 20:24-29

7. ____________________________ John 21:1-11

8. ____________________________ Matthew 28:16-20

9. ___________________________________________ 1 Corinthians 15:3-9

IV. EVIDENCE NUMBER FOUR — NO _____________________________

A. _______________________

B. _______________________

C. _______________________

V. EVIDENCE NUMBER FIVE — __________________________________

CONCLUSION

G.B. Hardy: __________________’s tomb _________________

__________________’s tomb _________________

__________________’s tomb _________________

__________________’s tomb _________________


Lesson Four

INTRODUCTION

It is imperative that we recognize the Holy Spirit! Before the child of God

submits himself to the leading of a spirit, he should make certain that he is

yielding to the Holy Spirit. This is important because the Holy Spirit is not the

only spirit operating in the world today.

A. There is the SPIRIT OF MAN. Man is body, soul, and spirit (1 Thess. 5:23).

We are spirit and our spirit leads us to do certain things. Our spirit is who we

are. If the Holy Spirit leads us, we will do Christian things. But if some other

spirit controls our spirit we will not do the will of God.

B. There is the SPIRIT OF SATAN. Paul tells believers that prior to their

conversion they walked “according to the course of this world, according to

the prince of the power of the air, of the spirit that is now working in the sons

of disobedience” (Eph. 2:2). Here we learn that Satan controls the spirit of

men who are outside of Christ.

C. There is the HOLY SPIRIT. God’s Spirit who is at work in you, both to will

and to work for His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13). God works in each Christian’s

life to have the will or the desire to do His will.

Christians are to test the spirits, to discern the spirits (1 John 4:1). John tells us

in verse that we can discern between the Spirit of Truth and the spirit of error. It

is absolutely essential that we recognize and clearly identify the Holy Spirit

before obeying. God, in His Word, has set forth some marks, which clearly

identify the Holy Spirit from other spirits.

A. The Holy Spirit will always work in harmony with Jesus Christ and the

Word of God, never apart from them or in opposition to them. Jesus told His

apostles in John 14:2, “He will teach you all things, and bring to your

remembrance all that I said to you. The Apostle Peter wrote (2 Pet. 1:1), “for

no prophecy was ever made by an act of human will but men moved by the

Holy Spirit spoke from God.”

B. The Holy Spirit is recognized by His unity. Paul contrasted the unity of the

Holy Spirit with the confusion of the other spirits in his first letter to the

Corinthians. Paul concluded, “God is not the author of confusion” (1 Cor.

14:32-33). Later Paul exhorted his followers “to keep the unity of the Spirit

in the bond of peace” (Eph. 4:3).

B. The Holy Spirit always exalts Jesus Christ, never Himself. Jesus told His

apostles, “When the Helper comes, whom I will send to you from the Father,

that is the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify about

Me” (John 15:2). He also said, “He will glorify Me, for He will take of Mine

and will disclose to you what is to come” (John 16:14). Jesus Christ is our

Savior. If a church’s teaching is not Christ-centered then it is not Spirit-led.

THE HOLY SPIRIT

Consider what the Bible teaches about the Holy Spirit.

I. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A PERSON

He is not a human person but a divine person. A person is a being who is

conscious of self, has the ability to think and reason; has feelings and emotions,

and has free will and is able to make decisions and take responsible action. The

Holy Spirit has all of these qualities.

A. He does what only persons can do.

1. He speaks 1 Tim. 4:1; Rev. 2:7

2. He comforts John 14:16

3. He teaches John 14:26

4. He testifies John 15:26

5. He guides John 16:1

6. He leads and forbids Acts 16:6

7. He searches and reveals 1 Cor. 2:10

8. He loves Rom. 15:30

9. He fellowships 2 Cor. 13:14

B. He has the characteristics of a person.

1. Mind Rom. 8:27

2. Love Rom. 1:30

3. Knowledge 1 Cor. 2:11

4. Will 1 Cor. 12:11

C. Suffers injuries ascribed to persons

1. Can be sinned against Matt. 12:24

2. Can be lied to Acts 5:3

3. Can be resisted Acts 7:51

4. Can be grieved Eph. 4:30; Isa. 63:10

5. Can be insulted Heb. 10:29

D. Personal pronouns in the masculine gender are applied to the Holy Spirit. In

the Greek, the noun “spirit” is neuter in gender. Normally all its pronouns

and modifiers would be neuter. But in the New Testament all pronouns

referring to the Holy Spirit are personal and masculine. John 16:13

II. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS GOD

A. He does the work of God.

1. He creates. Genesis 1:2

2. He regenerates people. John 3:5; Titus 3:5

3. He does the miraculous. Matthew 12:28; Romans 8:11

B. He has the characteristics of God.

1. He is eternal. Hebrews 9:13

2. He is omniscient. 1 Corinthians 2:1

3. He is omnipotent. Acts 1:8

4. He is omnipresent. Psalm 139:7

III. THE HOLY SPIRIT INDWELLS THE CHRISTIAN.

A. In the Old Testament it appears that the Holy Spirit came upon people and

left people at God’s discretion for the purpose of equipping them for service.

B. In the New Testament (from Pentecost on) the Holy Spirit is promised to all

who believe that Jesus is the Christ, repents of sin and is immersed in water

into Jesus Christ. Acts 2:38; 5:32; 19:1

IV. THE BLESSINGS OF HIS PRESENCE

A. He enables us to bear fruit of righteousness. Galatians 5:22-23

B. He equips us for ministry by giving us gifts. Rom. 12; Eph. 4; 1 Cor. 12-14

C. He empowers us to overcome sin. Romans 8:13b

D. He intercedes for us in our prayers. Romans 8:26

E. He seals us as belonging to Him. Ephesians 1:13-14

F. His presence assures us of our bodily resurrection Romans 8:11

G. He sustains us in hope. Galatians 5:5


Lesson Four

INTRODUCTION

It is crucial that we obey the Holy Spirit as opposed to other spirits operating

in the world.

Identifying marks of the Holy Spirit

1. He always works in _____________ with Jesus Christ and the Word of God.

2. He is recognized by His _____________.

3. He always ______________ Jesus Christ.

I. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS A _________________.

A. He does what only persons can do.

1. He ________________________ 1 Timothy 4:1; Revelation 2:7

2. He ________________________ John 14:16

3. He ________________________ John 14:26

4. He ________________________ John 15:26

5. He ________________________ John 1:1

6. He ________________________ Acts 16:6

7. He ________________________ 1 Corinthians 2:10

8. He ________________________ Romans 15:30

9. He ________________________ 2 Corinthians 13:14

B. He has the characteristics of a person.

1. _____________________ Romans 8:27

2. _____________________ Romans 1:30

3. _____________________ 1 Corinthians 2:11

4. _____________________ 1Corinthians 12:11

THE HOLY SPIRIT

C. He suffers injuries ascribed to persons.

1. He can be _____________________ Matthew 12:24

2. He can be _____________________ Acts 5:3

3. He can be _____________________ Acts 7:51

4. He can be _____________________ Ephesians 4:30; Isaiah 63:10

5. He can be _____________________ Hebrews 10:29

D. Personal pronouns in the ____________ gender are applied to the Holy Spirit.

II. THE HOLY SPIRIT IS ______________.

A. He does the ___________ of God.

1. He __________________ Genesis 1:2

2. He ___________________________ John 3:5; Titus 3:5

3. He does the ____________________ Matthew 12:28; Romans 8:11

B. He has the _______________________ of God.

1. He is _________________ Hebrews 9:13

2. He is _________________ 1 Corinthians 2:1

3. He is _________________ Acts 1:8

4. He is _________________ Psalm 139:7

III. THE HOLY SPIRIT INDWELLS THE CHRISTIAN. A. In the Old Testament it appears that the Holy Spirit came upon people for the

purpose of equipping them for some service, after which He departed.

B. In the New Testament (from Pentecost on) the Holy Spirit dwells within

every Christian. Acts 2:38; 5:32; 19:1

IV. THE BLESSINGS OF HIS PRESENCE

A. He _________________ us to bear fruit. Galatians 5:22-23

B. He _________________ us by giving us gifts. Rom. 12; Eph. 4; 1 Cor. 12-14

C. He _________________ us to overcome sin. Romans 8:13b

D. He _________________ for us in our prayers. Romans 8:26

E. He _________________ us, marking us as belonging to Him. Eph. 1:13-14

F. His presence assures us of our bodily ___________________ Romans 8:11

G. He _________________ us in hope. Galatians 5:5


Lesson Five

INTRODUCTION

There is a universally accepted principle that states “Water never rises higher

than its source.” The Bible itself states the principle this way: “By their fruits you

shall know them” (Matt. 7:16). James also mentions this same general principle

in asking, “Does a fountain send out from the same opening both fresh and bitter

water? Can a fig tree, my brothers, produce olives, or a vine produce figs? Nor

can salt water produce fresh.” THE POINT IS THIS: wherever the Bible has

gone civilization has been lifted to a higher plane. It has made better husbands

and wives, better fathers and mothers, better sons and daughters, and better

employers and employees. It has been the strongest influence for good in the

history of the world. Could this influence for good have come from a source

which was itself a fabrication and a collection of false claims? Knowing what we

know about cause and effect, we cannot but conclude that the good influence of

the Bible is another evidence that it within itself is eminently good.

It was through the teaching and influence of the Scriptures that many of the

major institutions of our modern world were created. Many of the laws that make

our land a pleasant place in which to live also came from the teaching of the

Bible. Without its beneficent influence, our world would be an infinitely worse

place in which to live.

Those of us in the independent Christian Church are in a unique position in

relationship to the rest of the Christian world. Every Christian denomination has

a set of beliefs and rules, a creed or constitution by which all faith and worship is

conducted. These consist of man-made ideas and interpretations of what the

Bible says, written down with pen and ink. This does not mean that those who

follow such church doctrines cannot be Christians. But it does mean that they

aren’t following New Testament precedents. This departure from New Testament

practice is the very problem that caused many men in early American history to

begin a movement to restore New Testament Christianity.

The New Testament is our rule of life, our divine constitution and guidebook.

In it is contained everything necessary for life and godliness (2 Pet. 1:3). Paul

tells us in 2 Tim. 3:16-17 that “all Scripture is inspired by God and profitable for

teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness; so that the man

of God may be adequate, equipped for every good work.” The New Testament

contains everything necessary to make our worship and us acceptable in the

sight of God. In it is found the divine pattern for how the church is to function

and the divine standard for how the individual believer is to live his life. We dare

not depart from the New Testament in what we teach or what we practice.

THE BIBLE

Consider the value of the Bible . . .

I. TO THE LOST

A. We are begotten by the Word of God 1 Peter 1:23; James 1:18

B. We are saved by the Word. James 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:15; Romans 1:16

C. Faith comes through hearing the Word. Romans 10:17

We know that Christ is actually the One who saves us. When we confess Him

as our Lord and Savior and submit to Him, He saves us. But the Lordship of

Jesus and submission and obedience to the Word of God are one and the same.

All we know of Jesus is through the Word of God. All we know of His will is

through this revelation He has left us. This is stated and illustrated in the Sermon

on the Mount in Matthew 7:21-27.

II. TO THE SAVED

A. As a means of spiritual growth Matt. 4:4; Jn. 6:63; Acts 20:32

B. The Word cleanses us; keeps us clean and holy. Ps. 119:9; Jn. 15:3; 17:17

C. By the Word of God we are able to resist the attacks of Satan and win the

victory over sin. This is powerfully demonstrated by Jesus when He was

being tempted by Satan (Matt. 4:1-11). Jesus thwarted Satan’s attack by

responding with the Word of God. And the devil fled. Paul tells us (Eph.

6:11-17) that the Word is the sword of the Spirit, which we are to use as our

offensive weapon against the devil’s schemes. Psalm 119:11

D. By the Word of God we learn the truth. Psalm 19:7; 119:105; John 17:17

E. Finally, we see the great importance of the Word when we learn that our very

life depends upon it. Matthew 7:24-27; John 12:48

REVELATION AND INSPIRATION

The Bible is the product of the miraculous transmission of God’s will to man,

assuring us that what we possess is what God intended and delivered. God

revealed His will to men whom He inspired to record it. What the inspired

writers recorded was overseen and guarded by the Holy Spirit, giving us

confidence that we can know God’s will for us. We have already seen the

Bible’s claim to be the divine revelation. Consider now the Bible’s confirmation

of inspiration.

I. INSPIRATION OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

A. Reliable — From the following Scriptures, what Old Testament stories and

people does Jesus confirm as being historically true?

1. Matthew 6:29 Solomon

2. Matthew 12:40-41 Jonah

3. Matthew 19:4 The Creation

4. Matthew 23:35 Aabel & Zechariah

5. Mark 12:26 Moses & the burning bush

6. Luke 4:25-26 Elijah & the widow of Zarephath

7. Luke 4:2 7 Elisha & Naaman

8. Luke 17:27 Noah & the ark

9. Luke 17:29 Lot and Sodom

10. Luke 17:32 Lot’s wife

11. John 3:14 Moses lifting up the serpent

B. Inspired by God—Give Old Testament references where possible

1. Matthew 22:31-32 Moses Exodus 3:6, 15

2. Mark 7:9-13 Moses Exodus 20:12; 21:17

3. Mark 12:36 David Psalm 110:1

4. John 10:34-36 Scripture can’t be broken Psalm 82:6

C. Authoritative — What does Jesus say about Scriptural authority?

1. John 5:39-40 They bear witness of Him

2. John 5:46-47 Moses wrote of Him

3. Luke 16:29-31 Moses & the Prophets wrote it

4. Did Jesus submit to the authority of the Scriptures? Yes

D. Prophetic — Did the following come true?

1. Micah 5:2 Birth of Jesus in Bethlehem Yes

2. Psalm 22:16 Hands and feet of Jesus pierced Yes

3. Isaiah 53:12 Jesus executed with criminals Yes

II. INSPIRATION OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

A. What did Jesus promise the New Testament writers?

1. John 14:26 The Holy Spirit will come



B. What did these writers claim?

1. Peter (2 Peter 3:1-2; 1 Peter 1:22-25 He’s giving God’s commandments

2. Paul (1 Thessalonians 2:13; 1 Corinthians 14:37) It’s God’s Word

3. Apostles (Galatians 1:8-9; Acts 2:42) It’s the only true gospel

C. Did the church recognize the writings as Scripture?

1. 2 Peter 3:14-16 Yes

2. 1 Timothy 5:18 Yes

3. Jude 17-18 Yes

III. OTHER EVIDENCE CONFIRMING INSPIRATION

A. Bible’s growth in first century

B. Archaeology

C. Amazing unity

D. Indestructibility

E. Circumstantial Evidence:

1. Christian Church

2. Lord’s Day

3. Lord’s Supper

4. Baptism


Lesson Five

INTRODUCTION

Wherever the Bible has gone civilization has been ______________________

_________________________________________________________________

The Bible (particularly the New Testament) is the basis for all that we ______

and __________________.

The value of the Bible . . .

I. TO THE LOST

A. We are ____________ by the Word of God. 1 Peter 1:23; James 1:18

B. We are ____________ by the Word of God. Ja. 1:21; 2 Tim. 3:15; Rom. 1:16

C. ____________ comes through hearing the Word. Romans 10:17

II. TO THE SAVED

A. A means of __________________ Matt. 4:4; Jn. 6:63; Acts 20:32

B. The Word ________________ us. Ps. 119:9; Jn. 15:3; 17:17

C. Provides victory over ________ Matt. 4:1-11; Eph. 6:11-17

D. Source of divine ____________ Psalm 19:7; 119:105; John 17:17

E. Our very _________ depends upon it. Matt. 7:24-27; John 12:48

REVELATION AND INSPIRATION

The Bible is the product of the miraculous transmission of God’s will to man,

insuring that what we possess is what God intended and delivered. God _______

His will to men whom He _________________ to record it.

THE BIBLE

I. INSPIRATION OF THE OLD TESTAMENT

A. Reliable — From the following Scriptures, what Old Testament stories and

people does Jesus confirm as being historically true?

1. Matthew 6:29 _______________________________

2. Matthew 12:40-41 _______________________________

3. Matthew 19:4 _______________________________

4. Matthew 23:35 _______________________________

5. Mark 12:26 _______________________________

6. Luke 4:25-26 _______________________________

7. Luke 4:27 _______________________________

8. Luke 17:27 ________________________________

9. Luke 17:29 ________________________________

10. Luke 17:32 ________________________________

11. John 3:14 ________________________________

B. Inspired by God — Give Old Testament references where possible.

1. Matthew 22:31-32 ________________________________

2. Mark 7:9-13 ________________________________

3. Mark 12:36 ________________________________

4. John 10:34-36 ________________________________

C. Authoritative — What does Jesus say about Scriptural authority?

1. John 5:39-40 _________________________________

2. John 5:46-47 _________________________________

3. Luke 16:29-31 _________________________________

4. Did Jesus submit to the authority fo the Scriptures? Yes No

D. Prophetic — Did the following come true?

1. Micah 5:2 _________________________________ Yes No

2. Psalm 22:16 _________________________________ Yes No

3. Isaiah 53:12 _________________________________ Yes No

II. INSPIRATION OF THE NEW TESTAMENT

A. What did Jesus promise the New Testament writers?

1. John 14:26 ___________________________________________

2. John 15:26 ___________________________________________

3. John 16:13 ___________________________________________

B. What did these writers claim?

1. Peter (2 Pet. 3:1-2; 1 Pet. 1:22-25) _____________________________

2. Paul (1 Thess. 2:13; 1 Cor. 14:37) _____________________________

3. Apostles (Gal. 1:8-9; Acts 2:42) _____________________________

C. Did the church recognize the writings as Scripture?

1. 2 Peter 3:14-16 Yes No

2. 1 Timothy 5:18 Yes No

3. Jude 17-18 Yes No

III. OTHER EVIDENCE CONFIRMING INSPIRATION

A. Bible’s growth in the first century

B. Archaeology

C. Amazing unity

D. Indestructibility

E. Circumstantial Evidence:

1. Christian Church

2. Lord’s Day

3. Lord’s Supper

4. Baptism


Lesson Six

INTRODUCTION

Throughout history God has dealt with man in various ways during specific

periods of time, which we sometimes call dispensations. For example, man has

labeled the period form Adam to Moses as the Patriarchal Age (dispensation).

The word “patriarchal” comes from the Latin and means “rule of the fathers.”

During this time God dealt directly with the heads of households (e.g., Adam,

Noah, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob). God’s revelation was rather dim and His

requirements few. This is sometimes called the “Starlight Age” of God’s

revelation to man.

The second period of Bible history is called the Mosaic Age (dispensation)

and extends from Moses at Mount Sinai to Christ on the cross. God revealed His

will for the Israelites both as individuals and as a nation through the Law.

Revelation was clearer and God’s requirements were higher and more specific.

This period of history is sometimes called the “Moonlight Age” of God’s

revelation to man.

The third period of Bible history is the Christian Age (dispensation). It began

on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2) and will continue until Christ returns. This has

been called the “Sunlight Age” of God’s revelation to man. This revelation is full

and clear.

Corresponding with these different ages have been certain agreements or

covenants that God has made between Himself and His people. Some people are

surprised to find out that God has made several covenants. The following

scriptures relate to these various covenants.

Covenant with Noah (Genesis 6:18; 9:16)

Covenant with Abraham (Genesis 15:18)

Sinai Covenant with Israel (Exodus 19:5-6; 20)

Covenant with David (2 Samuel 23:5; 7:12-16)

New Covenant with Christians (Luke 22:20; Hebrews 8 & 9)

The English word “covenant” comes from two Latin words — con,

“together,” and venio, “to come.” The word literally means, “a coming together.”

The Greek word for covenant is diatheke. It is used 33 times in the New

Testament.

I. KEY DISTINCTIONS IN THE COVENANTS

A. Parties

1. A covenant is valid for those only who abide by its terms. The Mosaic

Covenant, for example, was intended for and pertained to the nation of

Israel alone. One entered that covenant by physical birth. More on this

later. The New Covenant applies to those only who choose to enter it by

spiritual birth, which occurs at baptism. It is not binding, therefore, on non-

Christians. Nor do the benefits apply to those who have not entered the

covenant.

THE COVENANTS

2. It is improper to bind the terms of any covenant upon those who are not

party to it. One is not responsible to keep the terms of a covenant nor

subject to the penalties of breaking a covenant in which he is not a party.

B. Duration

1. A covenant is in force for a period of time stipulated by the one who sets

the terms. In the Old Testament covenants were said to be “permanent” or

to last “forever.”


Lesson Seven

INTRODUCTION

The Greek word “charis” or “charisma” is that from which we derive the

English word “grace.” Its basic meaning is “gift.” But the idea and significance

of this gift goes well beyond that of a birthday present or a gift given to or

received by a friend or loved one. In fact, grace is a gift from one whom we have

offended.

Consider a couple specific aspects relating to the type of gift grace is.

1. The gift is kind (or favorable). One theological dictionary defines grace

as “making glad by gifts.” It is a “gift that makes glad.” The giver

intends only good to come out of the gift that he has given (James 1:17)

2. The gift is undeserved. It is receiving the exact opposite of what we

deserve — divine favor. Romans 6:23 says sinners deserve the wages of

eternal death but that we, by God’s grace, have received the gift of

eternal life. There is no relationship that the recipient has with he giver,

which coerces the giver to be gracious (Romans 5:1). No work has been

done by the recipient that would obligate the giver or put the giver in the

recipient’s debt (Ephesians 2:8-9). The motivating factor in grace is

love. God loves us and gives us His grace. Consider this grace — God’s

gift.

I. GRACE: DEFINED A. When the Bible speaks of “grace,” it usually refers to our salvation. In fact,

there are three basic connotations:

1. The source of salvation. It is God’s nature to desire and to provide

man’s salvation.

2. The content of our salvation. Grace refers to the actual gift we receive

from God when He saves us. In this sense grace is the double cure of

salvation — justification and regeneration-sanctification.

3. The means of our salvation. Grace is the method or system by which

God saves us.

B. Gareth L. Reese says grace is everything God does to save a man. It has

been defined by means of the acronym: God’s Riches At Christ’s Expense.

II. GRACE: THE NEED

A. Why grace is needed

1. God’s law is perfect, but man is not. There is one fundamental reason

God’s law cannot save a man. Specifically, man cannot keep it perfectly

(Galatians 3:10). It is the nature of law to punish lawbreakers. Grace is

about escaping the penalty imposed by the law.

2. While it is theoretically possible to be saved by law, it is practically

impossible. For the moment we break even one part of the law, we

become a lawbreaker and are subject to its penalty.

3. The O.T. law provided for sacrifices that would atone for sin, but these

GRACE

had to be offered continuously, being insufficient or inadequate to

remove for all time the lawbreaker’s guilt and culpability. The problem

is not with God’s perfect law, but with man’s weakness and propensity

to disobey.

4. Hebrews 10:1-4, 11

B. Man’s problem

1. We are sinners! Romans 3:23 says ALL have sinned.

2. The gate into heaven labeled “Law” is forever closed to sinners. We

have a problem only God can solve. Imperfect people cannot inhabit

God’s perfect heaven.

3. Illustration: 1,000 points needed to enter heaven — “How can I ever

hope to get into heaven, except by the grace of God?!” Exactly! Our

only hope is God’s grace. How does God’s grace save us?

III. GRACE: THE PROCESS

A. Grace and law are mutually exclusive. They are diametrically opposed to

each other. The ground rules for each illustrate it (credit Dr. Jack Cottrell).

1. The ground rules for law are reasonable and fair.

“Keep the commandments and escape the penalty.

Break the commandments and suffer the penalty.”

2. The ground rules for grace seem unreasonable and unjust.

“Keep the commandments and suffer the penalty.

Break the commandments and escape the penalty.”

Grace is not fair. It is more than fair!

B. The second statement of the ground rule of grace is understandably

precious to sinners. We can readily see how it applies to us. And we

treasure and revel in its provision. But the first statement not only makes

no sense, but it also has no apparent application, for all have sinned. But

wait! The first statement does apply to one Person — only one. And we

can’t understand or appreciate grace without recognizing its significance

and application.

C. Jesus, Who kept the law perfectly suffered the penalty on behalf of and for

the benefit of sinners. Because Jesus has paid our penalty, God can now

say to sinners, “Even though you have broken My commandments, you

may still escape the penalty you deserve.” See 2 Corinthians 5:21 and

Romans 3:26. Jesus received the exact opposite of what He deserved so

that we may receive the exact opposite of what we deserve. That is grace!

D. Not only is there a trading of “places,” but there is also a trading of

“faces.”

1. When God looked down at the cross, He didn’t see the face of Jesus but

the face of sinners. That is why He poured out on Jesus the wrath we

deserved.

2. For those who are “in Christ” — under grace — God looks upon us but

sees the face of His sinless Son. He does not see our sin but Christ’s

righteousness.

IV. GRACE: MISUNDERSTANDINGS

A. This seems too good to be true. And it is! But only as we view it with the

mentality of law. But this is not law. It’s grace! It is a gift that makes glad!

1. The problem that often plagues Christians is that we still act as if we’re

under law. Our “mentality” does not match our “reality.”

2. Law mentality says that salvation results from man’s work. We must

deserve it, merit it, earn it, achieve it. Leon Morris: “. . . Men at large

almost invariably tend to think of salvation in terms of merit. All

kinds of religions from the most primitive to the most cultural can be

found to agree on this one point, that however salvation is understood,

it is brought about as the result of man’s striving.”

B. The Galatians had this same problem back in the first century.

1. The Judaizers were claiming that a person could be saved by Jesus

Christ only if he kept all of the commandments of the law of Moses.

We could say it like this:

We are saved by grace but kept by law (obedience).

2. We have difficulty separating our mindset in the kingdom of this world

from the mindset in the Kingdom of God. We have a tendency,

therefore, to be confused by mixing mercy and merit.

3. We often picture judgment day in terms of a huge scale on which our

goodness is weighed against our sins. We can only hope that our good

deeds more than offset our evil deeds, tipping the scales in our favor.

This assumes that we can make up for our sins by doing good deeds.

This is the concept known as salvation by works.

C. Taking grace for granted

1. This is the issue addressed by Paul at Romans 6:1. After having stated

(ch. 5) that God’s grace is greater than all our sin, Paul anticipates the

conclusion among his readers that the more we sin the more God’s

grace will increase. Paul condemns this thinking in the strongest way

possible: “God forbid! May it never be!”

2. When we understand that we have been saved by grace, we will never

deliberately disobey God. Motivated by love, we will do all we can to

express our gratitude.

CONCLUSION

The doctrine of grace is unique to Christianity. No other religious system

offers salvation by grace.

All who have been saved by God’s grace are called upon to extend grace to

those who have offended and sinned against them. We are not only saved by

grace but are called upon to live by grace.

• Rejoice in your salvation.

• Live in the freedom of grace.

• Extend grace to others.


Lesson Seven

GRACE

INTRODUCTION

The basic meaning of the Greek word “charis,” which is “grace” in English,

is ______________. Hence, two specific aspects relating to the type of gift

grace is:

1) The gift is ____________. “A gift that makes _________”

2) The gift is ____________. (Romans 6:23; 5:1; Ephesians 2:8-9)

The motivating factor in grace is ____________.

I. GRACE: DEFINED

A. Three basic connotations

1. The ___________ of salvation



B. G________ R__________ A__ C____________ E_____________

II. GRACE: THE NEED

A. Why grace is needed — While it is _______________ possible to be saved

by law, it is ___________________ impossible.

What does Hebrews 10:1-4, 11 say about O.T. sacrifices?

B. Man’s problem

What does Romans 6:23 say about you?

What does this mean about the entrance gate into heaven labeled “Law?”

III. GRACE: THE PROCESS

A. Grace and law are mutually exclusive — opposite

1. The ground rules for law

Keep the commandments and _______________ the penalty.

Break the commandments and _______________ the penalty.

2. The ground rules for grace

Keep the commandments and _____________ the penalty.

Break the commandments and _____________ the penalty.

B. To how many people does the second statement of the ground rules of

grace apply? ______ The first statement? ______

IV. GRACE: MISUNDERSTANDINGS

A. Our _________________ does not match our _________________.

B. We are saved by __________ but kept by ____________ (obedience).

We get confused because we mix __________ with _________.

C. Taking grace for ______________. (Romans 6:1)

CONCLUSION

No other religious system offers salvation by ____________.

We are not only saved by grace but are called upon to _________ by grace.

• ______________ in your salvation.

• ______________ in the freedom of grace.

• ______________ grace to others.

INTRODUCTION

Faith is what God is looking for when He saves a person. Of Abraham, the

father of the faithful, it is written, “Abraham believed God, and it was reckoned

to him as righteousness. Therefore, be sure that it is those who are of faith who

are sons of Abraham” (Gal. 3:6, 7).

Of the many faithful people listed by the writer of Hebrews (ch. 11) it is said

that they “gained approval through their faith” (v. 39).

I. WHAT IS FAITH?

A. In the Old Testament, the characteristic word for faith is “trust.” It occurs

more than 150 times in the Old Testament.

1. It is used to translate Hebrew words signifying “to take refuge in,” “to

have confidence in,” “to roll or devolve on,” and “to stay oneself.”

2. In the New Testament, all words translated “believe,” “believing,”

“faith,” and “faithful” come from the same Greek word and usually

refer to having a personal trust in Jesus Christ. There are a couple

exceptions where the word “believe” is used to mean only having a

mental assent and not a personal trust, but only the context of the

Scripture (e.g., Jn. 12:42 & Ja. 2:19) will reveal this.

B. There are several Scriptures that define what Biblical faith is.

1. Hebrews 11:1 — “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the

conviction of things not seen.”

a. W.H. Griffith Thomas: “Faith is described in a two-fold way. It is

the foundation of things hoped for, and the conviction (for proof) of

things not seen. The word ‘assurance’ or ‘substance’ indicates that

faith must have a basis, which is the Word of God. And so the vital

question is not ‘Do we believe?’ nor ‘What do we believe?’ but ‘In

whom do we believe?’”

b. Everybody believes in someone or some thing. In what or whom do

you believe?

2. Hebrews 11:6 — “And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for

he who come to God must believe that He is and the He is a rewarder of

those who seek Him.”

C. Faith or trust is displayed by obedience. Confidence—commitment—

compliance

1. James 2:26 — “For just as the body without the spirit is dead, so also

faith without works is dead.”

a. The works mentioned here are the works that make faith complete

and show its power.

b. Saving faith is not merely intellectual assent to some proposition

but confidence and trust placed in the Person of God.


Lesson Eight

FAITH

II. HOW DO WE OBTAIN FAITH?

A. Faith in Jesus Christ comes about in the very same way that we would

obtain or develop faith in anyone:

1. Examine the evidence about the person.

Romans 10:17 — “So faith comes from hearing and hearing by the

word of Christ.”

2. Accept the evidence about that person.

John 20:31 — “Many other signs and wonders did Jesus in the

presence of many witnesses, but these have been written so that you

may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that

believing you may have life in His name.”

III. WHY IS FAITH IMPORTANT?

A. Faith makes us pleasing to God (Heb. 11:6).

B. By faith our sins are forgiven (Acts 10:43).

C. By faith, we are justified — declared innocent before God (Rom. 5:1).

D. By faith we are sanctified — set apart for a special purpose; to live for

God (Acts 26:18).

E. By faith we receive salvation (Eph. 2:8; 1 Pet. 1:9).

F. Faith brings peace to the heart (Jn. 14:1; Rom. 5:1).

INTRODUCTION

What is God looking for when He saves us? ___________

Faith is what distinguishes children of ________________ (Gal. 3:7).

It is through ____________ that people gain God’s approval (Heb. 11:39).

I. WHAT IS FAITH?

A. The characteristic word for faith in the Old Testament is _____________.

B. Scriptural definition / description of faith

1. Hebrews 11:1 — Faith is the __________________ of things hoped for

and the _________________ of things not seen.

2. Hebrews 11:6 — Without faith it is impossible to _____________ God.

C. Faith is displayed / demonstrated by ______________________.

1. James 2:26

2. Saving faith is not merely intellectual assent to a __________________

but rather confidence placed in the P______________ of God.

II. HOW DO WE OBTAIN FAITH?

A. _________________ the evidence (Rom. 10:17)

B. _________________ the evidence (John 20:31)

III. WHY IS FAITH IMPORTANT?

A. Faith makes us ____________________ to God (Heb. 11:6).

B. By faith our sins are ________________ (Acts 10:43).

C. By faith we are ____________________ (Rom. 5:1).

D. By faith we are ____________________ (Acts 26:18).

E. By faith we receive _________________ (Eph. 2:8; 1 Pet. 1:9).

F. Faith brings ______________ to the heart (Jn. 14:1; Rom. 5:1).


Lesson Eight

FAITH

INTRODUCTION

Repentance strikes at the heart of human wickedness. Unsaved sinners and

many church members do not want to be reproved for their sin, even by a

gracious, loving, fellow Christian.

The daughter of a former president of the United States was being

interviewed about her father’s sins. The newsman asked, “Don’t you think your

father should repent?” She quickly replied, “I don’t like that word.”

Repentance is not a popular thing with any of us. But that is exactly why it

needs to be dealt with.

I. WHAT REPENTANCE IS NOT

A. Fear

When Paul discussed the judgment to come with Felix, the governor (Acts

24:25), it caused him to fear, but it did not produce repentance in him. The

convenient season to turn from sin never came to this trembling sinner.

B. Conviction

1. A person may be convicted of the fact that before God he is a terrible

sinner, and yet never turn to the Lord.

2. Agrippa tried to evade Paul’s appeal to turn away from sin with a sneer

(Acts 26:27-29). He was convicted. But, so far as we know, those

convictions never led him to repent.

C. Sorrow

1. A sorrow for sin is a definite antecedent and essential motive that leads

to repentance. But mere sorrow or remorse does not constitute

repentance.

2. Paul says, “Sorrow that is according to the will of God produces a

repentance without regret . .. But sorrow of the world produces death

(2 Cor. 7:10).

3. A person can be sorry for the consequences of sin without being sorry

for the sin itself.

II. WHO REPENTANCE IS FOR

A. The sinner (Acts 2:38) Relate the scene, the sermon, the conviction

(v. 37), the question and the answer that begins with “Repent.”

B. The saint (Acts 8:22) Tell the story about preaching in Samaria, Simon

being baptized (v. 13), Peter and John laying hands on people resulting in

miraculous signs, Simon’s sin and Peter’s correction (v. 22).

III. HINDRANCES TO REPENTANCE

A. Pride — Repentance is tacit admission of guilt and wrong

B. Power of sin — Sin has such a grip on us that repentance is hindered.

C. Procrastination — Acts 24:24-25

IV. THE PROCESS OF REPENTANCE

Repentance isn’t simply saying, “I’m sorry God.” J.W. McGarvey said it this


Lesson Nine

REPENTANCE

way: “Repentance is a change of will or mind caused by a sorrow for sin and

leading to a reformation of life.” He gives us a simple three-step process, which

may be illustrated by the account (Luke 15:11-16) of what is commonly called

“The Prodigal Son.”

A. Change of mind Decision Verse 17 says the wasteful son “came to his

senses.”

B. Change of heart Devotion Verses 18-19 His decision was not founded

in fear (e.g., spending eternity in hell) or

prompted by pressure (e.g., outside forces or

people) but the prodding from his heart

(e.g., intellect, will, emotion).

C. Change of life Determination Verses 20-21 He took appropriate action

CONCLUSION

The Greek word translated “repentance” is metanoia. It means “to have

another mind” or “to change the mind.” Repentance is a change of mind and

heart that results in a change of lifestyle. It is a change of the attitude (inward)

that affects the actions (outward) for the good purpose of God.

INTRODUCTION

I. WHAT REPENTANCE IS NOT

A. __________ Acts 24:25

B. __________ Acts 26:27-29

C. __________ 2 Cor. 7:10

II. WHO REPENTANCE IS FOR

A. The ____________ Acts 2:38

B. The ____________ Acts 8:22

III. HINDRANCES TO REPENTANCE

A. ___________

B. ___________

C. ___________ Acts 24:24-25

IV.THE PROCESS OF REPENTANCE Luke 15:11-16

A. Change of ______________ or D_____________ v. 17

B. Change of ______________ or D_____________ v. 18-19

C. Change of ______________ or D_____________ v. 20-21

CONCLUSION

Repentance is a change of _______________ and _______________

resulting in a change of _______________.


Lesson Nine

REPENTANCE

INTRODUCTION

Roy Weece, for many years the campus minister at the University of Missouri

in Columbia, MO, relates an interesting account involving the conversion of

Satan worshipers to Jesus Christ. When the new converts reported their decision,

the leaders of the Satanists were intent upon learning if the students had been

baptized. The implication seemed to be that the Satanists recognized baptism as

the line of demarcation, so to speak, between the kingdom of darkness and the

kingdom of light.

It is true that Satan will do all he can to dissuade a person from being

baptized into Christ for the remission of sin. Satan is not so threatened by a

person attending church services or even making a claim to faith in Jesus.

Perhaps not even by a person practicing religious exercises, such as prayer. He

hasn’t lost the individual from his kingdom until the point of baptism.

It is very important, therefore, that we understand what the Bible says about

this life-changing and destiny-changing event.

I. THE PRIORITY OF BAPTISM

A. Baptism is important for three distinct reasons.

1. Christ commissioned it (Matt. 28:18-20)

2. The apostles preached it.

3. The church accepted and practiced it.

B. Every conversion account (all recorded in the book of Acts) includes the

fact that all who desired salvation were baptized. See Acts 2, 8, 9, 10, 16,

and 22.

II. THE PREREQUISITES OF BAPTISM

A. Hearing the gospel (Rom. 10:14-17)

B. Believing the gospel (Mk. 16:16; Acts 8:37)

C. Conviction / confession of sin (Acts 2:37, 38) — realization that one is lost

D. Trust in and surrender to Christ (Rom 10:9, 10)

E. Repentance (Acts 2:38; 3:19)

From what the Bible says, list some things that would

disqualify infants from biblical baptism.

III. THE PRACTICE OF BAPTISM

A. The word “baptize” does not appear in the Greek Bible. It is a word

created, not by translating but by transliterating the Greek word baptizo.

In effect, this is merely assigning letters in the English alphabet to their

corresponding letters in the Greek, thereby creating a new word. (Relate

the history of the KJV translators.) It is necessary, therefore, to understand

what the Greek word actually means or denotes.

1. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of New Testament Words: Baptism is the

process of immersion or submersion. In all Greek literature

contemporary to Jesus “baptism” referred to a complete “covering up

of” or “plunging into.”


Lesson Ten

BAPTISM

2. Kenny Boles, professor of Greek at Ozark Christian College:

“BAPTIZE is a violent word! It comes from a rough, tough

background and has an aroma of death about it. When people of the

first century heard the Greek word baptizo (bahp TEEDZ oh), they not

only thought of immersion — they also thought of death! Josephus, the

famous Jewish historian of the first century, provides a vivid illustration

of this point. The word baptizo is found thirteen times in his writings,

nearly every time in a context of destruction and death. His uses of the

word include: to ‘sink’ a ship; to ‘drown’ an enemy; to ‘plunge’ a

sword into; and to ‘bring down’ a city to destruction. Josephus also tells

about Herod the Great, who was jealous of the growing popularity of

his handsome young brother-in-law, Aristobulus. Herod lured him into

a swimming pool in Jericho, and had his servants hold Aristobulus

down and drown him. The word used by Josephus was baptizo (Wars 1,

437 and Antiquities 15, 55).

It was no accident, then, that the Scriptures connect Christian

baptism with our death to the former life and our burial in Christ (Col.

2:12; Romans 6:3-11). When we were baptized, we were sunk-

drowned-killed! The former life was brought down to destruction so

that God could give us new life in Christ.

Conclusion: While we go about explaining the proper form of

baptism and the actual results of baptism, let us also impress on people

the meaning of baptism. The picture for baptizo is the watery demise of

a sinner … sinking … drowning … dead.”

B. The Word

What do the following Scriptures teach regarding the form or mode of

Bible baptism?

Matthew 3:16; John 3:23; Acts 8:38-39; Romans 6:1-6; Colossians 2:12

IV. THE PERSON TO BE BAPTIZED

A. Repentant

As already discussed, a person must first confess a faith in Jesus,

acknowledge sin, and repent (Acts 8:37; Matt. 3:7-8).

B. Humble

Many who have confessed Jesus as Lord and repented of sin are still

prevented by pride and/or prejudice (upbringing, denominational loyalty,

etc.) from submitting to baptism.

C. Submissive

For a person to be baptized, he must be totally submissive to the whole

counsel of God and have a humility that allows him to be lowered into the

watery grave of baptism that shows, not just says, he needs God’s

forgiveness.

V. THE PURPOSE OF BAPTISM

A. What happens at baptism?

1. Mark 16:16 Jesus: salvation

2. Acts 2:38 Peter: forgiveness of sins

3. Acts 19:1-5 Paul: reception of the Holy Spirit

4. Acts 22:16 Ananias: washing away of sins

5. Colossians 2:11-14 Paul: raised up with Christ through faith in God’s

work

6. 1 Peter 3:21 Peter: salvation

B. What is pictured/portrayed in baptism?

1. Romans 6:1-6 the gospel (death, burial and resurrection of Jesus)

2. Colossians 2:12 faith in the working of God

3. Galatians 3:27 clothed with Christ

C. Results of baptism

1. 2 Corinthians 5:17 new creation

2. Romans 6:1-6 walk in newness of life

3. 1 Corinthians 12:13 united in one body

CONCLUSION

Grace is the basis of our salvation. If Christ had not died voluntarily for our

sins, then none of us could be saved.

Faith is the means of our salvation. It is what allows us to accept all that Jesus

has done for us.

Baptism is the time or the occasion of our salvation. When our faith moves us

to submit to God in baptism, God applies the merits of Christ’s death to us.

Dr. Jack Cottrell (His Truth) writes:

“The uniform teaching of Scripture is that the sinner receives the gifts of grace in

Christian baptism. This is the point where he enters the saving union with Jesus

Christ . . . Baptism is the point of time when the guilt and penalty of sin are

removed and the sinner becomes a forgiven or justified person . . . Baptism is

consistent with grace because it is in essence a promise of God in which we put

our trust. It is not so much a command (law) as it is a promise (grace), and this is

the way we should preach it. Baptism is the place where God has promised to

meet the sinner and bestow upon him the gifts of salvation. Saving faith will

immediately accept this promise and will rush to meet the Savior in the

baptismal waters.”

INTRODUCTION

What was the one question asked by Satanist cult leaders of recent converts to

Christianity?

I. THE PRIORITY OF BAPTISM

A. Baptism is important for three distinct reasons

1. Christ ___________________ it (Matt. 28:18-20)

2. The apostles ______________ it

3. The church _______________ and _______________ it.

B. Every conversion account includes the fact that all who desired salvation

were baptized. (Acts 2, 8, 9, 10, 16, 22)

II. THE PREREQUISITES OF BAPTISM

A. _______________ the gospel (Rom. 10:17)

B. _______________ the gospel (Mark 16:16; Acts 8:37)

C. _______________ / ________________ of sin (Acts 2:37, 38)

D. _________ in and __________________ to Christ (Rom 10:9, 10)

E. _______________ (Acts 2:38; 3:19)

III. THE PRACTICE OF BAPTISM

A. The word “baptize” is not a translation but rather the _________________

of the Greek word baptizo (bahp TEEDZ oh).

Kenny Boles: “The picture for baptizo is the watery demise of a sinner . . .

________________ . . . _________________ . . . ______________.”

B. The Word

What do the following Scriptures teach regarding the form or mode of

Bible baptism?

Matthew 3:16 ________________________________

John 3:23 ________________________________

Acts 8:38-39 ________________________________

Romans 6:1-6 ________________________________

Colossians 2:12 _______________________________


Lesson Ten

BAPTISM

IV. THE PERSON TO BE BAPTIZED

A. ____________________ (Acts 8:37; Matt. 3:7-8)

B. ____________________

Many who have confessed Jesus as Lord and repented of sin are still

prevented by ________ and/or ____________ from submitting to baptism.

C. ____________________

V. THE PURPSOE OF BAPTISM

A. What happens at baptism?

1. Mark 16:16 Jesus: ____________________

2. Acts 2:38 Peter: __________________

3. Acts 19:1-5 Paul: reception of the _________________________

4. Acts 22:16 Ananias: _______________________ of sins

5. Colossians 2:11-14 Paul: raised up with Christ through faith in God’s

work

6. 1 Peter 3:21 Peter: ________________

B. What is pictured / portrayed in baptism?

1. Romans 6:1-6 ______________ (death, burial and resurrection)

2. Colossians 2:12 ______________ in the working of God

3. Galatians 3:27 ______________ with Christ

C. Results of baptism

1. 2 Corinthians 5:17 ___________________

2. Romans 6:1-6 walk in ___________________ of life

3. 1 Corinthians 12:13 __________________ in one body

CONCLUSION

Grace is the _________________ of our salvation.

Faith is the __________________ of our salvation.

Baptism is the ________________ of our salvation.

Introduction

The following Scriptures comprise the biblical teaching about the Lord’s

Supper.

Matthew 26:26-29 Mark 14:22-25

Luke 22:16-20 Acts 2:42; 20:7

1 Corinthians 10:16-21; 11:23-34

These passages answer the following questions:

• What does it mean?

• Who should participate?

• How should it be observed?

I. Its Institution

A. Context

1. Thursday night of Jesus’ final week on Earth

2. In an upper room with His disciples to celebrate the Passover

B. Elements

1. The loaf, representing Jesus’ body

2. The cup, representing Jesus’ blood

II. Its Significance

A. Expressed by its designations

1. Communion / Sharing (1Cor. 10:16)

2. Lord’s Supper (1 Cor. 11:20)

3. Breaking of bread (Acts 2:42; 20:7)

4. Table of the Lord (1 Cor. 10:21)

5. Eucharist—giving thanks (1 Cor. 11:23-24)

B. As a divine command (1 Cor. 11:24-25)

C. As a memorial (not a monument)

D. As a proclamation

1. Our love for the Lord and obedience to Him

2. Of Jesus’ atoning work at Calvary

3. Of the Lord’s return (1 Cor. 11:26)

E. Communion

1. With the Lord

2. With fellow Christians

III. Its Observance

A. Time and Frequency

1. No command specifying either—Many things were left to the Holy Spirit to

teach the apostles (Jn. 16:12-13). Jesus simply said, “Do this in

remembrance of Me as often as you drink it.

2. Biblical statements—Acts 20:7 Paul apparently delayed his departure from

Troas so as to break bread with them on the Lord’s Day.

3. Apostolic example—Acts 2:42 says the church “continued steadfastly in the


Lesson Eleven

THE LORD’S SUPPER

apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of the bread, and

prayer.”

4. Historical evidence

a. A council met in A.D. 324 and stated that tithes and offerings would be

refused from one failing to participate in the weekly communion.

b. Dr. John Mason, noted Presbyterian: “The Lord’s Supper was observed

by the first Christians every Lord’s Day.”

c. John Wesley (Methodist): “I also advise the elders to administer the

supper of the Lord on every Lord’s Day.” (Letters to America—1784)

d. See www.ccmhar.com / Info Center / Articles for other citations

http://www.mychurchwebsite.net/site/userFiles/259/pdf259_mqqso9.pdf

B. Manner

1. Orderly (1 Cor. 11:17-22; 14:40)

2. As a family, excluding no member (1 Cor. 11:20-22, 33-34)

3. In a worthy manner (1 Cor. 11:27)

a. discerning the Lord’s body and blood (1 Cor. 11:29)

b. examining self (1 Cor. 11:28-29)

IV. Its Participants

A. All who have entered the covenant

1. Jesus said, “This cup is the New Testament (covenant) in my blood” (1 Cor.

11:25). The memorial has meaning and significance for those only who

have entered the covenant.

2. Inasmuch as we enter the covenant through faith and by grace at baptism, in

which we participate in Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection, the Lord’s

Supper is intended for those who have been immersed into Jesus for the

forgiveness of sin.

B. None barred or forbidden

1. It is the church’s responsibility to prepare and offer the Supper, as well as to

teach about its significance, purpose and intended participants.

2. The Bible says nothing about “open” or “closed” communion.

3. It is the individual’s responsibility to examine himself before partaking and

to determine whether or not to participate.

Not a sacrament, at least in the sense that grace is dispensed and sins are forgiven

as one partakes. Sins are forgiven at baptism. Some have the mistaken idea that

one must partake of the Lord’s Supper to remain forgiven; that one carries sins

with him until such time he partakes of the Lord’s Supper again.

Introduction

Pertinent Scriptures: Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-25; Luke 22:16-20; Acts

2:42; 20:7; 1 Corinthians 10:16-21; 11:23-34

These passages answer the following pertinent questions:

• What does it mean?

• Who should participate?

• How should it be observed?

I. ITS INSTITUTION

A. Context

B. Elements

1. The loaf, representing Jesus’ ____________

2. The cup, representing Jesus’ ____________

II. ITS SIGNIFICANCE

A. Expressed by its designations

1. _________________ / sharing (1 Cor. 10:16)

2. _________ ___________ (1 Cor. 11:20)

3. _____________ of __________ (Acts 2:42; 20:7)

4. _____________ of the ________ (1 Cor. 10:21)

5. _______________(not a Bible term) — giving thanks (1 Cor. 11:23-24)

B. As a divine _____________ (1 Cor. 11:24-25)

C. As a _______________ (NOT a ___________________)

D. As a __________________

1. of _________________________

2. of _________________________

3. of _________________________ (1 Cor. 11:26)

E. Communion

1. with ______________________

2. with ______________________


Lesson Eleven

THE LORD’S SUPPER

III. ITS OBSERVANCE

A. Time and Frequency

1. No ____________________

2. Biblical statements (Acts 20:7)

3. Apostolic example (Acts 2:42)

4. Historical evidence (see www.ccmhar.com / Info Center / Articles)

B. Manner

1. ________________ (1 Cor. 11:17-22; 14:40)

2. As a _______________, excluding no member (1 Cor. 11:20-22, 33-34)

3. In a _______________ manner (1 Cor. 11:27)

a. discerning the body

b. examining self

IV. ITS PARTICIPANTS

A. All who have entered the ________________________ (1 Cor. 11:25)

B. None barred or forbidden

Comments:

The Lord’s Supper is not a sacrament, for grace is not dispensed and sins are

not forgiven at the Lord’s Supper.

One’s sins are neither remitted nor retained upon the basis of his partaking of

the emblems.

But this does not diminish the value and importance of the weekly observance.


Lesson Twelve

PRAYER

Introduction

Prayer is a close, personal and respectful conversation between man and God.

Most people have called upon God regardless their relationship to Him. In fact,

some who claim to be agnostic, if not even atheistic, have called upon God for

help in desperate circumstances.

Prayer should be as natural as a child talking to his father. But talking to God

should never become a casual religious ritual or exercise.

I. REASONS TO PRAY

A. Jesus tells us we need to pray.

Luke 18:1 “Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they

should always pray and not give up.”

B. Jesus set the perfect example for us with His prayer life.

1. Matthew 14:23 “After he had dismissed them, he went up on a

mountainside by himself to pray. When evening came,

he was there alone.”

2. Mark 6:46 “After leaving them, he went up on a mountainside to pray.”

3. Luke 5:16 “But Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”

4. Luke 6:12 “It was at this time that He went off to the mountain to pray,

and He spent the whole night in prayer to God.”

C. It is through prayer that our needs are met.

James 4:2 “You want something but don’t get it. You kill and covet, but

you cannot have what you want. You quarrel and fight. You do

not have, because you do not ask God.”

D. Prayer brings joy to the heart.

John 16:24 “Until now you have not asked for anything in my name. Ask

and you will receive, and your joy will be complete.”

E. Prayer is a cure for worry and anxiety.

1. Matthew 6:33 “But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all

these things will be given to you as well.”

2. Philippians 4:6 “Do not be anxious about anything but in everything, by

prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your

requests to God.”

F. Prayer brings power into the life of the immersed believer.

Acts 4:31 “After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was

shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke

the word of God boldly.”

G. Prayer is a practical and tangible way of helping the sick. (both physically

and spiritually)

1. Matthew 26:41 “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation.

The spirit is willing, but the body is weak.”

2. James 5:13, 16 “Is any one of you in trouble? He should pray. Is anyone

happy? Let him sing songs of praise. . . Therefore confess

your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you

may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful

and effective.”

H. Most importantly, it is the main way we communicate with the Father.

1. Matthew 6:5-15

2. Matthew 7:7-11

II. LESSONS ON HOW TO PRAY

Luke 11:1 A disciple said, “Master, teach us to pray just as John taught his

disciples.”

A. From parables

1. Luke 18:1-8 Persistence

a. Christians need to be persistent in prayer.

b. God hears and answers prayer.

c. If a worthless judge will grant the request of a widow for whom he has

no regard, our loving God will certainly respond to our requests.

2. Luke 18:9-14 Attitude

A. The Pharisee’s prayer was self-righteous and God rejected it.

B. The tax collector’s prayer was humble and God accepted it.

B. From Jesus’ sermon Matthew 6:5-15

1. Negative

a. private, not public

b. to God, not man

c. not meaningless repetition (e.g., incantations, chanting)

2. Positive — Jesus’ model (not to be recited, necessarily, but emulated)

contains various elements that should be included in our prayers.

Note these in Jesus’ model.

A. Adoration—acknowledge God for who He is

B. Thanksgiving—for what He has done

C. Confession—for what we have done

D. Petition / supplication—for what we need

E. Intercession—for what others need

F. Submission—to God’s will in responding to our supplications

III. CONDITIONS TO HAVE PRAYERS ANSWERED

A. Moral

1. We must pray with pure hearts and clean hands (Ps. 66:18; Is. 59:1-2;

1 Tim. 2:8; 1 Pet. 3:12)

2. We must be free from idolatry (Ez. 14:1-3; Col. 3:5)

3. We must treat our spouse properly (1 Pet. 3:7)

B. Spiritual

1. We must pray with right motives and according to His will (Ja. 4:3;

1 Jn. 5:14)

2. We must forgive others in order to come to God. (Matt. 5:23-24; 6:12-15;

Mk. 11:25-26)

3. We must be merciful toward people (Prov. 21:13)

4. We must hear and obey God’s will (Deut. 1:42-46; Prov. 28:9; Jn. 15:7;

1 Jn. 3:22)

5. We must pray humbly (Prov. 1:24-33; Zech. 7:11-13; Lk. 18:9-14)

6. We must pray in faith (Mk. 11:24; Heb. 11:6; Ja. 1:5-6)

7. We pray in Jesus’ name (Jn. 14:13-14; 16:24)


Lesson Twelve

PRAYER

Introduction

Prayer is a close, personal and respectful _________________ between man

and God.

Prayer should be as natural as a ___________ talking to his _____________.

But prayer should never become a casual religious ______________ or exercise.

I. REASONS TO PRAY

A. Jesus tells us we ________ to pray. Luke 18:1

B. Jesus set the perfect ____________ for us with His prayer life.

Matthew 14:23; Mark 6:46; Luke 5:16; 6:12

C. It is through prayer that our _____________ ______ _______. James 4:2

D. Prayer brings _________ to the heart. John 16:24

E. Prayer is a cure for _________ and ______________. Matthew 6:33;

Philippians 4:6

F. Prayer brings _____________ into the life of the immersed believer.

Acts 4:31

G. Prayer is a practical and tangible way of helping the ________.

Matthew 26:41; James 5:13, 16

H. Most importantly, It is the main way we ________________ with the Father.

1. Matthew 6:5-15

2. Matthew 7:7-11

II. LESSONS ON HOW TO PRAY

Luke 11:1 “Master, teach us to pray . . .”

A. From ________________

1. Luke 18:1-8 ______________________

2. Luke 18:9-14 ______________________

B. From Jesus’ ________________ Matthew 6:5-15

1. Negative

2. Positive

a. A______________ - acknowledge God for who He is

b. T______________ - for what He has done

c. C______________ - for what we have done

d. P______________ - for what we need

e. I_______________ - for what others need

f. S_______________ - to God’s will in responding to our supplications

III. CONDITIONS TO HAVE PRAYERS ANSWERED

A. Moral

1. We must pray with pure ___________ and clean __________

(Psalm 66:18; Isaiah 59:1-2; 1 Timothy 2:8;

1 Peter 3:12)

2. We must be free from _________________ (Ezekiel 14:1-3;

Colossians 3:5)

3. We must treat our _________ properly (1 Peter 3:7)

B. Spiritual

1. We must pray with right ________________ and according to His will

(James 4:3; 1 John 5:14)

2. We must ___________ others in order to come to God. (Matthew 5:23-24;

6:12-15; Mark 11:25-26)

3. We must be _____________ toward people. (Proverbs 21:13)

4. We must hear and _______ God’s will (Deuteronomy 1:42-46;

Proverbs 28:9; John 15:7; 1 John 3:22)

5. We must pray _____________ (Proverbs 1:24-33; Zechariah 7:11-13;

Luke 18:9-14)

6. We must pray in ___________ (Mark 11:24; Hebrews 11:6; James 1:5-6)

7. We pray in Jesus’ __________ (John 14:13-14; 16:24)

introduction i. reasons for believing god ......god what answer he should give to the children of...

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